Today's news is full of stories regarding increased immigration enforcement, including "raids" and Social Security Administration "no-match" letters being sent to employers. New York Times and CNN articles share the U.S Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers plan to conduct a series of enforcement operations targeting undocumented immigrants. They report that these activities are expected Sunday, July 14 in as many as ten "major" cities. Our partners at the federal level, the National Restaurant Association and the American Hotel and Lodging Association, have shared information and resources with us that may be helpful to you.

1. The Restaurant Law Center, hosted a webinar held exclusively on immigration law with information regarding immigration rights, compliance and resources for owners/managers and employees, as well as guidance for securing counsel in the event of an enforcement action. Here's what we found helpful:

  • It is suggested that employers know ahead of time that ICE seeks to collect evidence to use against a company. To be prepared, it is recommended you already have this information, but also know that ICE MUST obtain a warrant to collect this evidence.
  • You should feel comfortable demanding that ICE produce such a warrant before you share any information with them.
  • If you have an employee that is encountering enforcement action, encourage them to secure reputable legal counsel to assist them.
  • If your business experiences a raid, you should also immediately seek legal counsel for your business.

Information regarding raids starts just after the one hour mark of the webinar – approximately 1:03:00. View the webinar here.

2. The Restaurant Law Center shared this document addressing questions you may have on no-match letters.

AHLA has taken the position that lodging establishments are not designed or equipped to be used as detention facilities. The organization tells us they have not been contacted by federal authorities regarding the use of hotels for detention purposes.

Take a look at Rambana and Ricci's "Know Your Rights" flyer for employers.

Originally Published by theFlorida Restaurant & Lodging Association

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